It’s standard practice for healthcare providers to find out which medications their patients are taking. Our patients sometimes wonder why we ask them about prescription medications before their dental procedure. Here’s why: Some medications—prescription or over-the-counter—can affect oral health or dental treatment. Bleeding Issues Heparin/warfarin and other anticoagulants can result in abnormal…
Gum Disease Treatment
What Are Impacted Wisdom Teeth?
Evolution isn’t always tidy and linear. For example, we have smaller jaws than our ancestors thousands of years ago, but most of our bodies haven’t adapted by generating fewer teeth. Two-thirds of us produce the same amount of teeth as early humans. These late-developing extra molars are called wisdom teeth and they pose unique oral…
Treat Oral Infections Early to Prevent Serious Health Consequences
“It’s just sore, it will go away.” “I’m too busy right now, I’ll take my child to the dentist later.” “A little sensitivity is no big deal.” There has been a lot of talk about viral infections lately. In this message, we concentrate on oral infections. There are many causes of oral infections. In children,…
Teeth Whitening Procedures for Seniors
There are a few different types of teeth whitening procedures that are available for seniors. One option is to use an at-home teeth whitening kit, which can be purchased from a drugstore or online. This type of kit usually involves using a bleaching agent that is applied to the teeth with a brush. Another option…
Will a Dental Implant Cause a Problem With Airport Security?
Airport security checks might be necessary, but they can be a major annoyance. Emptying your pockets. Pulling your laptop out of your carry-on. Taking your shoes off. Some individuals considering whether to get an implant may wonder if it will affect airport security. Let’s answer the questions frequently asked about dental implant procedures and airport…
The Link Between Gum Disease and Viral Infections
The pandemic has increased public awareness of the danger of viruses and the importance of a healthy immune system. Our Immune System Protects Against Serious Illness The variation in the seriousness of COVID-19 illness is due, in part, to the strength of natural biological defenses. Of course, you may be wondering why we’re discussing this…
A Beautiful Smile is Timeless
Every stage of life has its benefits and drawbacks. For example, in our golden years, we may enjoy traveling, more free time and grandchildren. However, most Lafayette retirees do not welcome wrinkles, limited mobility or dental dilemmas. Fortunately, your smile can be healthy and attractive throughout your life. With cosmetic and restorative dentistry, you can…
Does Your Smile Make a Great First Impression?
In a Match.com survey, over 5,000 single men and women were asked what they found most attractive in a potential dating partner. 60% of men and 71% of women said straight, white teeth and an attractive smile was the most valued feature. and… Research by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD), found that a…
Toothache Relief at Boulder County Smiles in Lafayette
A toothache is probably the most common dental problem. However, they have multiple causes. A toothache can come on gradually–or attack with full force. 1. You sip a cold drink and–bam!–tooth pain. When a cavity has eroded enamel it eventually taps the layer underneath. This is called the dentin. This layer is softer than enamel…
47% of Adults Have Gum Disease: Are You One of Them?
A recent CDC report provides the following data related to prevalence of periodontitis in the U.S.: 47.2% of people aged 30 years and older have some form of periodontal disease. Periodontal disease increases with age, 70.1% of individuals 65 years and older have periodontal disease. This condition is more common in men than women (56.4%…
